Sarcopenia in the elderly is a syndrome characterized by age-related progressive loss of muscle mass, decline in muscle strength, and deterioration of muscle function. Its high incidence significantly increases the risk of falls, fractures, disability, and mortality among the elderly, posing a global public health challenge for geriatric health. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a key cytokine regulating muscle growth, repair, and metabolism, exhibits a progressive decline in serum levels with aging and is closely associated with the onset and progression of sarcopenia in the elderly. This study reviews the research progress of IGF-1 in the diagnosis and efficacy prediction of sarcopenia in the elderly, providing theoretical references for precise diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis assessment of sarcopenia in the elderly.
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